How to Check and Add Engine Oil

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your car's engine. The oil lubricates, and cleans and cools the engine. Running out of oil can ruin your engine and lead to very expensive repairs. Check your oil at least once a month. Engine oil does not get used up. If your engine repeatedly needs oil, either you have a leak or the engine is burning oil--both conditions your mechanic needs to check out and repair.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 1 Or 2 Qts. (1 Or 2 L) Motor Oil
• Rag
• Funnel

1. Turn off the engine and open the hood.

2. Locate the oil dipstick. If you are not sure where it is, check your car owner's manual or ask your mechanic.

3. 

   Pull out the dipstick, noting where you pulled it from (see A).

4. 

   Wipe the dipstick clean with a rag and look at the indicator at the bottom of the dipstick.

5. Push the dipstick back into the hole, making sure to push it back in all the way.

6. Pull out the dipstick again and see where the oil has left a residue in relation to the indicators (see B).

7. If the oil level on the dipstick reads "low" or "add," add oil through the oil-filler hole located at the top of the engine. Add 1/4 qt. (250 ml) at a time to avoid overfilling and use a funnel to avoid spilling.

8. Recheck the oil level, following steps 3 through 6.

Tips & Warnings

• Carry 1 or 2 qts. (1 or 2 l) of engine oil in your trunk for emergencies.

• Stop driving and turn off the engine immediately if the oil light on your dashboard comes on.